SCOTLAND'S new £33million performance centre plans to take athletes from grassroots to greatness after drawing inspiration from projects around the world.

The new base at Heriot Watt , known as Oriam, will become the heart of Scottish sport.

In addition to Gordon Strachan’s national team and Vern Cotter’s rugby stars, Basketball Scotland, Scottish Handball and Scottish Squash and Racketball will utilise the facilities.

With doors set to open in less than a year the media were given a glimpse behind the scenes yesterday as building work continued.

Oriam will boast an indoor pitch which matches the dimensions of Hampden as well as grass and synthetic outdoor pitches and a high-performance strength and conditioning centre.

The project’s potential fills CEO Catriona McAllister with pride and she said: “This facility is so exciting because you are working with athletes at the very top of their game but also getting to influence every level and age group.

“I’m just as excited about a young child having a good experience here as I am about seeing Gordon Strachan and his squad come through the doors.

“Grassroots to greatness is the way we think about it. It’s a landmark project for Scotland.

“It’s not just about focusing on the athletes, it’s about everything that supports them.”